NFFS Workforce Development Survey Results

Workforce Challenges Are Not Easing &
Why NFFS Is Your Resource in 2026 and Beyond

The latest FM&T Metalcasting Business Outlook confirms what many metalcasters already know from experience. Workforce challenges are not a short term disruption. They are the defining operational issue facing the industry today and will continue well into 2026 and beyond.

More than half of survey respondents reported that labor shortages significantly impacted their operations during 2025. Skills shortages, human resources constraints, and rising labor costs followed closely behind. Together, these issues form a single, interconnected challenge. Foundries may have orders, equipment, and capability, but without a stable and skilled workforce, growth and even steady production remain difficult to sustain.

Labor and Skills Gaps Are Limiting Capacity

The workforce shortage is directly reflected in plant utilization. Only a small percentage of metalcasters reported operating near full capacity in 2025. A majority operated well below their normal potential, with nearly one quarter running at 50 percent capacity or less. This is not a demand problem alone. It is a people problem.

At the same time, hiring intentions for 2026 reveal hesitation. While nearly half of respondents plan to hire, more than half do not. This signals uncertainty and fatigue in the labor market. Many foundries are struggling to find qualified candidates, retain experienced employees, and build the next generation of skilled workers.

Workforce Pressures Will Continue Into 2026

Survey respondents expect labor and skills shortages to remain their top challenges in the year ahead. Human resources capacity, training demands, and competition for talent are not easing. These pressures affect productivity, quality, safety, and long term succession planning.

The reality is clear. Waiting for the labor market to correct itself is not a strategy. Metalcasters that take intentional action to strengthen recruiting, training, and retention will be better positioned to stabilize operations and capture opportunity when demand increases.

How NFFS Supports Your Workforce Strategy

This is where Non-Ferrous Founders’ Society plays a critical role. NFFS exists to support its members not only through advocacy and technical leadership, but by providing practical workforce solutions that address today’s most pressing challenges.

In 2026 and beyond, NFFS is focused on helping members secure and retain the workforce they need by:

• Connecting members to proven workforce development programs and partnerships that improve recruiting outcomes
• Supporting smarter, more structured training approaches that reduce reliance on informal learning and accelerate skill development
• Providing leadership and management resources that strengthen retention and engagement across generations
• Creating opportunities for peer learning so members can share what works in attracting and keeping talent
• Advocating for the industry and elevating metalcasting careers to students, educators, and career changers

These efforts are designed to move members from awareness to action. Workforce challenges are complex, but they are solvable when addressed collectively and strategically.

Taking Action in 2026

The FM&T survey reinforces an important truth. The workforce issue is not temporary, and inaction carries real cost. Reduced capacity, delayed orders, and lost institutional knowledge all threaten long term competitiveness.

NFFS is committed to being your partner in addressing these challenges. Whether your foundry is focused on recruiting new talent, upskilling incumbent workers, or building a stronger leadership pipeline, the association provides the tools, connections, and resources to help you act with confidence.

In 2026 and beyond, securing and retaining your workforce will be one of the most important investments you make. NFFS stands ready to help you make that investment count.